New research has revealed that if drivers did simple car maintenance checks ahead of their MOT (like replacing tyres, wipers and bulbs), almost 50 per cent of faults found on the test could actually be avoided.

Carried out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the study found that the top reasons for MOT failures between April 2015 and March 2016 were lighting and signalling, suspension, brakes, tyres and issues that affected the driver’s view of the road.

During this timeframe, almost one in five cars were found to have problems with lighting and signalling, which also included simple issues like blown bulbs – which motorists can easily sort out themselves ahead of time.

Commenting on the findings, chief executive of the DVSA Gareth Llewellyn said: “Don’t wait until your MOT to find out if your car needs attention. Make sure your car is properly maintained and safe to drive at all times. Carrying out regular checks on lights and tyres will help you to stay safe and legal, as well as saving you time and money when your car’s MOT is due.”

You must take your car for its MOT by the third anniversary of its registration or the date of its last MOT if it’s more than three years old. However, some cars may need to be tested at one year old. Remember that you can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a car without a valid MOT. If your MOT has run out, you can’t drive on the road unless you’re taking the car to or from somewhere to be repaired or if you’re going to a pre-arranged MOT test.